The over-50s will be able to get a free flu vaccine from December 1, the government has announced.
As part of an expanded programme this winter, the next phase will see adults aged between 50-64 able to get the flu jab from their GP or pharmacy.
Professor Jonathan Van-Tam has urged those eligible in the new group to book appointments as soon as they can.
The deputy chief medical officer for England added: “Influenza vaccination is a critical tool this and every winter to prevent severe illnesses and potential hospitalisations for thousands of people."
The flu vaccine uptake is higher in all vulnerable groups except pregnant women compared to this time last year, according to the latest data.
Public Health England statistics suggest that 72.9 per cent of those aged 65 and over, 45.0pc of two-year-olds and 46.8pc of three-year-olds have had their vaccine.
The Department of Health and Social Care said that GPs, Trusts, and Pharmacists will be able to order additional stock to vaccinate the new group from the centrally secured government supply of over seven million vaccines.
There is enough flu vaccine supply to vaccinate 30 million people throughout this year’s flu season in England, they say.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: "This winter is like no other, and we have to worry about the twin threats of flu and Covid-19.
“COVID means getting a flu jab is more important than ever this year. So we are delivering the largest ever flu vaccination programme."
Public Health Minister, Jo Churchill commented: “To prepare for this challenging winter, we committed to protect as many people as possible from the flu, to keep those at risk safe and reduce the strain on our NHS.
"I am pleased we are now able to deliver on that commitment with those aged 50 to 64 invited to get their free flu vaccine from the start of December.
“These vaccinations are already being given to our existing priority groups and that vital work will continue. More vaccine is flowing into GPs and pharmacies throughout the next few months, and I would urge anyone eligible for their flu vaccine to get one including all health and social care workers.”
Those now eligible for the flu vaccine are:
· adults aged 65 or over
· pregnant women
· those with certain pre-existing conditions
· NHS and social care workers
· all children up to Year 7
· household contacts of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable
· adults aged 50 to 64
The rollout of the flu vaccine to over-50s is separate to any future Covid-19 vaccine rollout. People will be able to receive the flu and Covid-19 vaccinations in parallel.
Further details on the Covid-19 vaccination deployment plan will follow.
